15 Exercises for People in Pain

Tempted to just skip the exercise? Don't. It can be surprisingly helpful for people in pain.

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Why exercise makes sense

by Amanda Gardner

When you're in pain, the last thing you may want to do is exercise.

But people with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to keep symptoms under control if they exercise at least a little bit every day, says Andrew McDonnell, supervisor of outpatient physical therapy at Scott & White Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation Clinic in Round Rock, Texas. Exercising also helps the heart, lungs and brain.

Always consult a physical therapist before starting an exercise regimen so you don’t do anything that worsens pain. Here are 14 types of exercise that may help you move and feel better.